Many modern techniques can be described as “minimally invasive” surgery, or “MIS.” For some patients, a minimally invasive procedure may be a better surgical option than a traditional or “open” spinal surgery. Instead of removing muscle attachments from bones, a minimally invasive surgery spreads and pushes muscles out of the way.

X-rays, computer-aided navigation techniques, and specialized tubes or retractors with special cameras or microscopes have led to major advances in the capabilities of MIS surgery. In addition to a smaller incision, MIS surgery has been shown on average to cause decreases in blood loss, postoperative pain and narcotic use, soft tissue damage, and number of days spent in the hospital. On average, patients have a faster recovery, and return to normal activity and work faster.

Procedures to decompress nerves of the spine include removing: herniated discs, enlarged ligaments and soft tissue, and bone spurs that are pressing on spinal nerves. In some cases, motion of the spine may become unstable or painful, either from wear and tear, trauma, or from a decompression procedure. These patients may be offered spinal fusion. There are MIS options and techniques available for both types of spinal surgery.

Minimally Invasive Decompression
A normal spinal canal is filled with fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and nerves. As the spine degenerates, spinal joints get bigger (just like the knuckles on our fingers), and discs may collapse or bulge. As this happens, room for the spinal cord and roots decreases and this may lead to pain or weakness in the legs. In severe cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may not be an option and an “open” procedure may be the best choice to remove arthritic bone spurs. However, for some patients where spinal stenosis is in only one or two levels, a minimally invasive surgery may be a better option with a quicker recovery.

Bone spurs and arthritis is removed from the spine where nerves are compressed using a tube or retractor that is often less than an inch in diameter. A high-powered surgical microscope is used through the tube so that the nerves can be safely seen and protected throughout the operation. This smaller incision, less muscle disruption, and preservation of more of the patient’s anatomy may lead to a quicker recovery, and physical therapy can begin sooner.

Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is always a major undertaking, and any patient considering it should understand the risks and recovery involved. Damage to nerves, infection, failure of bones to fuse properly, or the need for more surgery is all included in the risks of a minimally invasive or traditional “open” surgery. For this reason, it is important that patients consider and fail all possible nonsurgical or “conservative” methods with their surgeon before making the decision to undergo spine surgery. These nonsurgical treatments include physical therapy, heat/ice, anti-inflammatory or neurologic-acting medication, bracing, or spinal injections before surgery.

Instrumentation used to fuse vertebrae together is placed under x-ray guidance through small and specialized retractors, with an incision about an inch and a half or less in length. Through the same retractors, bone spurs are removed and spinal nerves are decompressed using a high-powered surgical microscope. For these patients, a smaller incision and less muscle disruption may lead to a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain.

When spine surgery is recommended, it is important for patients to discuss minimally invasive options with their surgeon. Minimally invasive surgery, or “MIS,” is not the right option for all patients. It is important to understand why you may not be a candidate for MIS. Some surgeons have not been trained using these techniques, and do not offer them even though their patients may benefit. Before undergoing a spinal surgery, you should have a good understanding of the procedure itself and what to expect during the recovery process. Since pain and recovery are personal and individualized for each patient, no surgeon can guarantee a particular recovery course. However for many patients, an MIS option may result in a smoother and more successful outcome.

Dr. Benjamin Bjerke specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery. He trained with the combined Neurosurgery and Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship at Mayo Clinic and is a spine surgeon for Reno Orthopedic Clinic.